Whether you are a seasoned yogi looking to get back into your practice or new to yoga all together, you may be wondering, where do I start?
We offer a variety of yoga classes at Club Greenwood and getting back to basics is a perfect place to start. We offer multiple Yoga Basics classes throughout the week. This class style is a gentle and therapeutic approach to yoga and focuses on joint mobility and stability, proper alignment and breath awareness. In this class you will learn about the asanas (poses) and delve into yogic breathing. Connect with your instructor before class as they can offer extra guidance and assistance throughout the practice. All levels are welcome including pre and postnatal women, post-rehab from surgery, beginner and veteran yogis alike.
If you can’t make a Basics class, Align and Flow is another great place to start. Align and Flow classes are based on traditional Vinyasa Yoga, meaning, this yoga practice involves linking breath to movement. You will flow in and out of poses using the breath as a guide. These classes can be a little faster paced than a basics class; however, they are still accessible, especially if you let your instructor know a little more about yourself before class. They can offer helpful modifications and adjustments and will break down proper alignment and breathing throughout the practice. Align and Flow will help develop mindfulness using breath, as well as strength, balance and coordination. We offer early morning, daytime and evening Align and Flow classes.
Restorative Yoga is also a wonderful way to start your yoga practice. This nourishing class style is intended to heal and reset the mind and body with a series of only a handful of passive, gentle poses based on the floor. Students will use props including blocks, blankets, bolsters and straps to support the body in the asanas to provide a safe and supportive environment to allow for the mind and body to surrender. Meant to restore the body, these classes also offer time for deep stretching and relaxation. All props for these classes are provided by the club and the format is a great option for any level of student.
Another starting option is Yin Yoga, which focuses more on the connective tissues rather than the muscles and like Restorative Yoga, is based on the floor. This class includes deep holds to increase flexibility and circulation and renew the body’s flow of energy. It is intended to help release the fascia (webbing surrounding muscles), as well as increase joint mobility. Based on stillness, Yin Yoga can be highly meditative, focusing your awareness on the within your mind and body. Props such as bolsters, blankets, blocks and straps are also used in this class. All levels are welcome, and we encourage you to connect with your instructor before class if you have any questions.
If a class setting is intimidating or class times don’t align with your schedule, you can book a private yoga session. Private lessons are an excellent way to learn proper techniques and alignment and you can work with an instructor of your choice to learn the basics of yoga at your convenience. We have highly skilled instructors on our team who can guide you through whichever format of yoga you choose with patience and grace.
Don’t worry what you look like, if you can touch your toes or if you wobble! You’ll need to release expectations as yoga is not about touching your toes or taking on complicated arm balances. Yoga is about the mind/body connection. Come to your mat with an open mind and patience. With time and practice you will gain not only more flexibility and joint mobility, but more peace of mind. We offer a safe space for you to get to know yourself, inside and out and in time, you will enjoy the benefits of a regular yoga practice, such as, mindfulness, stress reduction, strength and mobility!
We hope to see you on the mat soon!